I have been driving my son to school and since the beginning of the year, I have noticed her absence. My one and only Cantankerous Crossing Guard.I have posted the link to my post in her honor. I have no idea where she is, but I intend to find out.

After all she’s scared the crap out of kids and adults for some time, and I had a profound respect for her. I had a love/hate relationship with her. I saw the gentle loving way she waved and almost turned immediately to wave that Stop sign and chase down violators. I happened to have been one of those, violators, and after her chastising me, I never did it again. I actually think I had nightmares about her.

It’s because of her, that I take time and notice my crossing guards. There is another woman who has taken her place, and although she is not as colorful, she deserves respect, none the less.

I notice the guy on the other corner, and my daughter is convinced he’s using his power to attract women. He stands with his leg resting on a fire hydrant, as if he’s way too cool to direct his wards.

I laugh every time I see him, at the thought that he could actually be flirting with the parents driving by. I mean, I think of a conversation taking place, as he’s trying to impress one of the mother’s of the children. “Yes, I was once a pedestrian, and now I own this street! I have the power to make your kid stand all day, if I don’t cross him!”

My son laughs, when I say this. I have come upon that street on some mornings, when Cantank( my son’s nickname) was not there. “Oh my! Those kids are going to be stuck there all day!” I tell him.

The day that I saw her taking that Stop sign and physically pushing a kid, on his bike, backwards, onto the curb, I knew that little woman was powerful!

I decided that these unsung heroes, deserve all of our respect. I think I will get some pictures for my album. So many without any recognition. As a matter of fact, they should have a National Crossing Guard Day. I think I will suggest this to the Whitehouse. Those Crossing Guards should get a paid day off. I guess the kids would as well, since there would be no one to get them across the street!

So, I’m posting this in recognition of these people. Here’s to a job well done!